It can be distressing when your rental property suddenly comes on the market. You’re likely seeing real estate agents exhibiting your place to strangers and the impending uncertainty on where you will be living next.
Anyone can get nervous in any one of these situations.
Still, the procedure does not appear to be as time-consuming as it appears. Being aware of your rights as a tenant and preparing for the change will ease the transition.
Here are some tips for handling end of tenancy cleaning as your tenancy ends.
Understand Your Rights as a Tenant
Review your tenancy agreement first before you start to panic. It says about selling the property. A landlord usually has the right to sell the property.
Still, they have to respect your tenancy agreement, which includes providing appropriate notice and thus protecting your rights all through the process.
The landlord should give you at least 24-hour notice and cannot enter without your permission if they want to inspect the property. If you feel that your privacy has been violated, it’s your right to push back.
The tenancy will not end immediately when the house is sold, as well. Your tenancy agreement passes to the next buyer, who will purchase the house you still occupy. So, don’t pack too early! Having more time than you think may surprise you.
Prepare for Regular Viewings
Should your landlord or rental agent inform you of the forthcoming sale, they will certainly arrange a property visit. It can be a little awkward, particularly if you have been used to the surroundings.
Still, it would be better if you maintained the property well. You want a happy landlord who does not criticise you for missed chances for sales. Make sure you talk about a decent viewing schedule.
Requesting hours that work for your personal life and employment makes sense to help you avoid surprises.
Now, let’s talk about cleaning. Nobody wants prospective purchasers entering a cluttered space. In this situation, end of tenancy cleaning is key to success. Even though you are not yet moving out, keeping a semi-spotless living area will help the last cleaning session go much more easily.
Organising Your End of Tenancy Cleaning
It’s time to change gears once you’ve been told your tenancy is formally ending. Among the most important chores you have to do before turning over the keys is end of tenancy cleaning.
Unless there is fair wear and tear, landlords usually want the property returned in the same state as when you moved in. Particularly if you wish your investment returned.
How, therefore, should one handle this cleaning marathon?
- It is important to start on time. The procedure can be draining. Thus, you need ample time to make sure everything is in perfect state. Make sure you have plenty of time, whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional.
- Review the inventory list– Most rentals include an inventory list covering the state of the property and furnishings at first occupancy. The inspection can help you make sure you are returning the property as it was.
- Focus on the areas included in the end-of-tenancy cleaning checklist,such as an oven and carpets. If you are doing this yourself, pay close attention to typically neglected areas of everyday cleaning: the interior of appliances, windows, baseboards, light fittings, and bathroom grout. Every nook and cranny basically needs to glitter.
- Use a professional service. Many tenants find this to be the best path. Professional cleaners know exactly what rental agents and landlords want. It is their job to remove even the toughest stains and dirt using the right equipment, cleaning detergents, and knowledge. Furthermore, many cleaning companies offer re-cleaning if the landlord is dissatisfied.
Handling Repairs and Maintenance
Apart from end of tenancy cleaning, you should also give minor repairs some thought. Excessive damage could affect your deposit, but normal wear and tear is expected. It’s time to mend that damaged wardrobe door or cracked bathroom tile now.
Taking care of these little problems before you move out will help you leave on good terms and with your deposit as a whole.
Remember that you should notify any major repairs under the landlord’s responsibilities as soon as they come about. Should the house be sold, the landlord will probably value the heads-up to handle these problems before any possible purchasers pay visits.
Navigating the Emotional Side of Moving Out
To be really honest, leaving a rental can be emotional, particularly if you have considered it home for some time. It’s saying goodbye to a space filled with memories, and it’s not only about organising your stuff.
As you enter a new house, highlight the thrill of a new start and the accomplishment when everything is done.
It can also keep one organised throughout the process. From changing your address and contacting utility companies to organising end of tenancy cleaning, create a list of tasks to complete.
A well-defined strategy will help to lower anxiety and enable everything to seem more under control.
Securing Your Deposit
Although we have already discussed this, it is important to underline that the state of the property determines your deposit. When it comes to inspections, landlords are typically rather exact. Even little mistakes could cause deductions.
Whether you use a professional service or clean your end of tenancy personally, make sure you record everything. If you hired help, get receipts. Take pictures both before and after your cleaning.
Should disagreements develop about the state of the property, this will act as a safety net.
Planning for Your Next Move
You should start considering your next action even while you balance viewings, repairs, and cleaning. Start looking at new rentals right away once you have official notice your tenancy is ending.
The last thing you want is to be running about looking for a new site. Spend this time assessing the successes and failures of your present house. Do you require a quieter neighbourhood, improved access to public transport, or more room?
Remember the lessons you gained from this experience when you hunt for your next rental. For instance, verify the tenancy arrangements surrounding real estate sales twice-fold. A new house should feel like a step forward rather than a return trip through prior grievances.
Wrapping Up With Peace of Mind
Should your rental property be put on the market, you are naturally somewhat concerned about the future. You may reduce the stress of the process, though, by knowing your rights, staying on top of your obligations, and approaching the end of tenancy cleaning with vigour.
Additionally, who knows? Perhaps even greater than the house you are leaving behind will be your next one. You will be passing over those keys with success as long as you approach every action with clarity and a small bit of patience.